Pinabete : one opportunity toward the sustainable development of the Guatemalan Highlands.

Abstract

This paper first provides a general survey of Guatemala, investigating historical, economic, social and political trends within the country. Then, the paper analyzes the management of pinabete, an endangered Guatemalan fir (Abies guatemalensis). The cultivation of this species is being promoted by the environmental agencies of Guatemala in effort to alleviate pressure upon the few remaining natural forested stands. This species is highly sought after for use as a Christmas tree during the holiday season. A financial analysis is conducted in the final section of this paper that investigates three different cultivation systems for this threatened species. The financial analysis of these three cultivation systems indicates that the commercialization of this species can be considered a financially efficient cropping alternative for farmers of the Guatemalan Highlands. Moreover, the incorporation of pinabete into a farmer’s cultivation system assists in the conservation of this species, promotes soil conservation and enables farmers to diversify their revenue sources. The combination of income generation, inclusion of marginalized people, and natural resource conservation is key to the sustainable development of the Guatemalan Highlands.